Holidays in the South of France

The south of France is a breathtaking tapestry of golden beaches, rolling lavender fields, fragrant vineyards and azure Mediterranean waters. Cobblestone streets lead to charming coastal towns, inviting cafés and rustic architecture. The region is known for its natural beauty, fresh produce, fine wines and rich cultural heritage so it’s little wonder that le Midi is a favourite holiday destination among families and travellers alike.

The destination radiates the joie de vivre – joy of life – and with LeShuttle, the journey is effortlessly joyful too.

Visiting the South of France

Planning a family holiday, road trip or romantic getaway to the South of France is easy with LeShuttle. The drive from our Calais terminal takes between eight to twelve hours depending on where in the region you are visiting and is the perfect opportunity to explore Paris and the other French cities en route.

When to go

With its Mediterranean climate, the South of France enjoys warm, sunny summers and mild, wet winters, making it an ideal holiday destination year-round. Visitors can enjoy balmy water temperatures and sunny skies from mid-June to mid-September. This season is perfect for individuals and families seeking guaranteed sun, sea and sand. The tourist season is in full swing during the summer, and you’ll be able to explore a range of festivals, concerts and activities. It’s also the best time to see the lavender fields in full bloom in Provence!

But for those seeking a cooler and quieter experience, the off-peak months of spring (April and May) and autumn (Late September and October) offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the region with fewer crowds. Popular attractions will still be open during these periods and refreshing temperatures will make exploring the region more comfortable (unless you want to swim!)

Top holiday destinations in the South of France

There's something magical about the idea of a holiday in the south of France. Great wine, glorious rolling countryside, shimmering coastline... what's not to love? All you need to do is decide where in the south of France to go. We've picked a few of the top spots for your break away.

Bordeaux

A busy city in the heart of rolling wine country, Bordeaux has a little of everything, be it culture, cuisine, art or entertainment. Sip some of the world's finest vintages and take in the picturesque surroundings of wine country or indulge in the sights and sounds of the central city.

Naturally, Bordeaux is a hot spot for those keen on good wine, and if you have your heart set on picking up some great vintages, the city is an excellent base. There are lush vineyards throughout the region offering tastings and tours, and it's here that you'll find some of the most beautiful chateaux in France.

To keep the kids happy, opt for a taste of something more exotic with the Zoo de Bordeaux Pessac; from tigers to a special jungle of parrots, there are all kinds of exciting creatures to discover. You'll also find the Science Museum in the heart of the city, featuring fun, interactive exhibits that let the whole family get involved.

Vineyards in Bordeaux

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Orléans. From the LeShuttle terminal, it's 415 km (about 4 hours driving time) to Orléans, following the A1, and changing to the A10 once you pass through the outskirts of Paris. From Orléans it's 462km, about 4 hours 15 minutes driving time, heading south-west on the A10.

Provence

Fields of lavender paint the landscape purple in Provence while rolling vineyards and ancient olive groves add to the already breathtaking natural beauty of the region. Unsurprisingly, the area has been a source of inspiration and creativity for artists around the world and even Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh called it home at various points during their artistic careers. Today, Provence boasts a thriving art scene with a variety of art festivals, museums and galleries throughout the region.

At the heart of Provence is Aix, a city with roots deeply entrenched in history and art.

The main street, Cours Mirabeau, is the heart of the city, and along it, you'll find restaurants, cafés, and plenty of boutiques that just call out for a leisurely browse. One particularly stand-out feature of Aix is its many fountains - 1,000 in all (or more - it takes quite some time to count them); while the main attraction is its thermal spas. It was the ancient Romans who discovered the natural hot springs in the region, and it's well worth taking time for a relaxing spa experience.

If you're travelling with kids, they'll appreciate a break from walking - take Le Petit Train, a fun tram that runs through the centre of town. Children will also love the Museum of Natural History in the Aix Old Town, where they can get up close to dinosaur eggs and fossils - a great choice if you happen to encounter a rainy day.

Provence lavender fields

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Lyon. From the LeShuttle terminal, it's 758 km (about 6 hours 30 minutes driving time) to Lyon, following the A26. From Lyon it's 299 km (about 2 hours and 40 minutes driving time), heading south on the A7.

Toulouse

Lovely, lively and packed with things to do, Toulouse is full of surprises. There is so much visual splendour here, from the grand neoclassical facade of the Place du Capitol, and its museum of art, to the many pretty pink brick buildings, which earned Toulouse the nickname "La Ville Rose". This is a city made for ogling.

Certainly, modern art fans will love the exhibitions of Les Abattoirs while happy snappers will appreciate a visit to the Galerie du Château d'eau, the world's first photography museum. Take a drive through the African Safari Park, which offers plenty of fun, and look out for exotic creatures.

Toulouse is the centre of the European aerospace industry, and whether you're travelling with kids or are simply fascinated by all things space, check out La Cité de l'Espace, where simulations, model satellites and an IMAX cinema are all part of the experience.

The Place du Capitole in Toulouse

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Orléans. From the LeShuttle terminal in Calais, it's 415 km (about 4 hours driving time) to Orléans, following the A1, and changing to the A10 once you pass through the outskirts of Paris. From Orléans it's 554 km (about 4 hours and 54 minutes driving time) to Toulouse, heading south on the A7.

Nice

It's all there in the name: Côte d'Azur. Think blue seas, sandy beaches, and to top it off, the glamour of a bygone golden era.

Perched on the French Riviera, Nice is the place to be for a little luxury break. Treat yourself and go shopping in the local boutiques, stroll along the wide avenues, and grab lunch in a cafe. Or simply grab your beach towel and head to the pebbly beaches for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

If you're travelling with kids, take them to the jungle - or rather, the Parc Phoenix, a theme park of sorts, based around botanical gardens. There are birds, lizards, marine animals and over 2,500 species of different plants. If the sun is out, it's well worth taking the Petit Train, which takes you on a winding ride around the Old Town and the port, past attractions such as the Colline du Château. It's a great way to get your bearings and see the sights.

Nice’s old town architecture

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Lyon. From the LeShuttle terminal, it's 758 km (about 6 hours 30 minutes driving time) to Lyon, following the A26. From Lyon it's 470 km (about 4 hours and 10 minutes driving time), heading south on the A7, then venturing east on the A8 out of Provence.

Montpellier

Explore the cobbled winding streets of the Old Town, tucked under pretty arches, and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine - this is the place to just sit back and take in the ambience. Montpellier is like the Paris of the south, all romantic strolls and art galleries - it even has its own Arc de Triomphe, albeit smaller than the one in the capital.

For indoor beauty, explore the artworks in the Musée Fabre, but if the sun is shining then a wander through the sprawling botanical gardens, the Jardin des Plantes, is a must.

If you're on a family break, head to Montpellier Zoo, where you can meet brown bears, white rhinos, and friendly otters. Or pack a picnic and head for the fascinating rock formations at Cirque de Moureze. If the weather isn't on your side (not even the south of France can promise endless sunshine) then the Planétarium Galilée is the perfect place to keep the whole family enthralled.

The Musée Fabre

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Orléans. From the LeShuttle terminal, it's 415 km (about 4 hours driving time) to Orléans, following the A1, and changing to the A10 once you pass through the outskirts of Paris. From Orléans, it's 624 km (about 5 hours 35 minutes driving time) heading south on the A71 and changing to the A75 just out of Clermont-Ferrand.

Nîmes

The ancient Roman city of Nîmes is packed full of historic sights, and preserved ruins - it's a town with an old soul. Once part of the chariot route from Spain to Rome, many Emperors have passed through Nîmes over the ages.

To get a real sense of Nîmes' background, visit the Maison Carrée, which translates as square house - once the centre feature of the ancient Roman forum, it's one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world. And it's hard to miss Arena of Nîmes - a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre, which is still used as a stadium venue today.

The old ruins are enough to keep even the kids interested - take them to see the incredible aqueduct, Le Pont du Gard, one of the top tourist attractions in France.

If they get tired of walking around, hop on the tram that will take you around the city's main sights - a lovely way to get a better glimpse of the ancient ruins, and imagine how Nîmes might have been all those centuries ago.

Maison Carrée in Nîmes 

Getting there

We recommend breaking your journey in Lyon. From the LeShuttle terminal, it's 758 km (about 6 hours 30 minutes driving time) to Lyon, following the A26. From Lyon, it's 252 km (about 2 hours 20 minutes driving time) heading south on the A7.

What to do in the South of France

The south of France is brimming with must-see sights and things to do.

Tour the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Wine lovers and history enthusiasts will enjoy touring the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. One of the first wine-growing regions to receive an appellation contrôlée, the village is home to over 200 wineries and is known best for its full-bodied and robust red wines.

Embrace the high life in Cannes

The glamorous city on the French Riviera is famous for its luxury boutiques, fine dining restaurants, stunning beaches and red-carpet atmosphere. Every year, the city hosts the Cannes Film Festival. So, in addition to star gazing, you can wander the streets to see how the film industry has shaped the city and discover works of art dedicated to cinematic legends.

Take in Roman history in Arles

It’s impossible to not think about the Roman Empire in Arles.  Known as ‘Little Rome’, the city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins. You’ll find the remains of the theatre, baths, temples and arches throughout the area. Les Arènes, the amphitheatre, near the heart of the city, originally seated 20,000 people for gladiator fights and other public spectacles. Today, it hosts concerts and bullfights.

Les Arènes, Arles

Discover the medieval citadel in Carcassonne

Travel through 2,500 years of history at the medieval citadel in Carcassonne. The fortified city known as “La Cité” has been exceptionally well-preserved and as a result, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Walk down the narrow, cobbled streets or explore the castle and ramparts for a glimpse into life in medieval France.

Go on safari in the Camargue

The wetlands at the Camargue National Park invite you to discover stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and incredible photo opportunities. The nature reserve is home to over 400 species of birds, including flamingos, as well as wild horses, bulls, beavers and boar. 

Hike the Pyrenees

Connect with nature and take in some unforgettable views with a hike along the rugged Pyrenees. With a mixture of challenging ascents and gentle slopes, the mountain range is perfect for every type of hiker. It does take up to 60 days to complete the longest trail, so make sure you select an appropriate trail for your family and holiday schedule! And don’t forget to wear sturdy footwear!

Hire a boat at Gorges du Verdon

Get the best view of the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters at the Gorges de Verdon by hiring a boat to explore the area from an exciting new perspective. The largest canyon in Europe, the site stretches 100km and is the perfect spot for hiking, kayaking, climbing and even paragliding for adventurous types! 

The Gorges du Verdon

Begin your adventure to the South of France with LeShuttle

Getting to the south of France is easy with LeShuttle. Our services depart up to four times every hour, 365 days a year. And with crossings from Folkestone to Calais taking just 35 minutes, you’ll be on your French Riviera holiday in no time.